The people of Scotland have yesterday taken a truly momentous decision to remain a key part of the United Kingdom.

As Leader of Newcastle - a city with such close economic, historical and cultural links with Scotland - I’m delighted that we can continue to work together to build a more prosperous and above all fairer society across all parts of the United Kingdom.

We are, I believe, better together and the people of Scotland have endorsed that very principle in this historic vote.

Anyone who thinks this vote is a reaffirmation of the status quo is sorely mistaken. The debate over the last few months in Scotland has given voice to a deep dissatisfaction with the centralised nature of our country – economically and politically.

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Are you happy about the result of the Scottish referendum?

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From the perspective of a region much closer to Scotland than to London – geographically, and in terms of politics, culture and values – we have a similar passion and desire for a greater involvement in the decisions that affect us.

As a United Kingdom, we now have an opportunity – indeed an obligation - to address the centralisation of power which has come so close to fracturing the UK.

That opportunity applies to the English regions, as well as to Scotland. The North East must place itself at the forefront of that campaign.

I am already working closely with the big cities in Scotland, exploring areas where we can work together for the benefit of all our residents and businesses. But, to really deepen that relationship, places like Newcastle need the powers to be able to operate on a level playing field with Scottish cities. And, I have and will continue to make the case for that.

Finally, I have been struck by how the referendum debate in Scotland has electrified political debate, with people of all backgrounds coming together to debate ideas and issues that matter to them. The voter turnout is unprecedented in modem times for elections in these islands. So, I want to work with others across the political spectrum to ensure that future elections locally and across the UK inspire such passion and enthusiasm.